Sarlo Power Mowers celebrates 80 years in SWFL

FORT MYERS, Fla.- A family-owned company in Southwest Florida is celebrating 80 years in business.

Sarlo Power Mowers has been supplying machines to keep grass well-trimmed since 1935.

“The fact that it continues and remains relevant all these years is satisfying,” said owner Tony Sarlo. “My grandfather started up a general repair.”

The company has occupied the same place in downtown Fort Myers for decades.

Anthony Sarlo, an immigrant from Italy, realized cutting thick grass in Southwest Florida soil requires a mower with high wheels.

“He was a pragmatic individual. He knew that big wheels would go easier on soft
soil.”

Now, 80 years later, grandson Tony Sarlo recites the principles of the company founder.

“Simple design, rugged construction, and quality components. That’s been our hallmark from day one.”

Sarlo has three retail stores in Lee and Collier Counties. It makes all its products in Fort Myers.

“We have our mowers in Panama,  Jamaica, Costa Rica,” said Eloise Sarlo, “because they are good quality, they don’t have to repair them all the time.”

Despite its 80 years, Sarlo remains a small mower company, in a field of giants, like John Deere and Toro.

The fourth generation of Sarlo’s is working in the wings, waiting to power the company, onward to more success.

“It’s very humbling actually, and blessed to keep it going, another generation,” said Eloise Sarlo.

Sarlo’s hosting a big celebration Friday at its headquarters on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard in Fort Myers.